In the Honor of Halloween

Since Halloween is right around the corner, I've been thinking a bit about the macabre. In addition to watching some old Roger Corman and Hammer movies over the past few weeks, I've even decided to revisit a collection of Edgar Allan Poe's work which I have not read from in quite a long time.

Yesterday, it occurred to me to post a list of some of my favorite horror movies here.

Here they are, in no particular order:

• Martin (1977) - A unique variation on the traditional vampire story written and directed by George Romero.
• Dawn of the Dead/Day of the Dead (1978/1985) - Although Night of the Living Dead is great, these two movies are my favorites of Romero's zombie films.
• Re-Animator (1985) - One of Stuart Gordon's best films, with a good feel for the humor/horror combination that dates back to the days of James Whale.
• The Pit and the Pendulum (1991) - Fine direction by Gordon and a memorable performance courtesy of Lance Henrickson.
• House of Wax (1953) - Any fan of Vincent Price will enjoy this one while getting to see one of Charles Bronson's earliest film roles as a bonus.
• Phantasm (1979) - One of the most original horror movies I've ever seen.
• The Hills Have Eyes/The Last House on the Left (1977/1972) - Two great early films from Wes Craven.
• The Thing (1982) - One of Rob Bottin's first projects, and his effects from it still creep me out.
• The Exorcist (1973) - I generally enjoy William Friedkin's work as a director, but this movie may be one of the best efforts of his entire career.
• Shaun of the Dead (2004) - A hilarious take on the ol' zombie horde.
• Evil Dead II (1987) - From the days when Sam Raimi was making good movies.

I'll probably think of more later, but these are the ones that quickly spring to mind as being particularly special to me.